Nonmedical Use of Prescription Opioids Among Adolescents: Subtypes Based on Motivation for Use

• NCJ Number: 242831
• Journal: Journal of Addictive Diseases Volume: 31 Issue: 4 Dated: October - December 2012 Pages: 332-341
• Author(s): Amy Young, Ph.D.; Sean Esteban McCabe, Ph.D; James A. Cranford, Ph.D.; Paula Ross-Durow, Ph.D.; Carol J. Boyd, Ph.D.
• Date Published: October 2012
• Length: 10 pages
• Grant Number(s): R01DA024678; R01DA031160
• Sponsoring Agency: National Institute on Drug Abuse
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study examined the use of opioid medications for nonmedical use associated wiith adolescents to self-treat in contrast to adolescents use for sensation-seeking reasons.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to advance ones understanding of nonmedical use of prescription medications by identifying the distinguishing characteristics of two subtypes of adolescent nonmedical users of prescription opioids that have been previously described. A Web-based, self-administered survey was completed by 2,597 7th-12th grade students. Sensation-seeking nonmedical users were best characterized by rule breaking and aggressive behaviors and possible substance dependence. Medical users and nonmedical self-treating users were best characterized by somatic complaints, anxiety and depressive symptoms, and history of sexual victimization. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.